Boise State's Doug Martin Helped His NFL Draft Stock in the MAACO Bowl Las Vegas

Going into the MAACO Bowl Las Vegas, Doug Martin was well thought of by NFL scouts and experts. Many had him projected as a third-, fourth- or fifth-round pick.

On Thursday night, he probably increased his value. Martin showed everyone that he is more than just your average runner.

On the opening kickoff of the game in Vegas, Martin took the ball from two yards deep in the end zone and proceeded to cut and juke his way to a 102-yard touchdown.

On that one play, the man with No. 22 on his jersey set the tone for the entire night.

Martin would go on to have 124 return yards, 26 receiving yards on three catches, and 151 yards rushing on 31 carries. He also scored BSU's first and last touchdowns of the game.

To say he was the work horse for the Broncos is an understatement.

Martin helped himself considerably with his performance. He showed he could run, catch and play a role on special teams.

You can bet NFL scouts were licking their chops as he pounded that ASU defense and made incredible cuts and moves all night long.

After this performance, expect his stock to increase even more as he heads into the NFL combine.

Martin is plenty big at 5'9" and 210 lbs, and has no problem running the ball 25 to 30 times a game, as he showed against ASU. A performance, by the way, that won him the game's MVP award.

On the season, Martin ran for 1,299 yards and caught 28 passes for 255 yards out of the backfield.

Not only that, but he is versatile, strong. and agile. He also knows how to throw a block. He is certainly a running back with the complete package.

But wait, it doesn't stop there. He is a fierce competitor, hard worker, smart and very fast.

Martin runs a 4.4 40-yard dash, which most people probably don't realize. You saw some of that speed if you watched the MAACO Bowl.

When he enters the combine with his skill, ability and measurables, expect good things to happen.

Look for his draft stock to continue to rise. It shouldn't be a surprise if someone takes a chance on him as early as the second round.

Martin will be missed by the Broncos, but their loss will be the NFL's gain.

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